Cranberry-Wine Mold
A festive cranberry-wine mold combining tart cranberry sauce, rich Burgundy wine, and crunchy nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or elegant appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry gelatin in boiling water.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Add Burgundy wine and cranberry sauce to the gelatin mixture.
- Chill until partly set.
- Fold in chopped walnuts, diced apple, diced pear, and diced orange.
- Pour into a 1 1/2-quart mold and chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a fruity red wine like Merlot or Zinfandel instead of Burgundy. If you're short on time, you can use canned fruit cocktail instead of fresh fruit, but drain it well. To ensure the gelatin sets properly, make sure the mixture is completely cool before adding the wine and cranberry sauce. Experiment with chopped pecans instead of walnuts for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry-Wine Mold makes a stunning centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Pair it with a light cheese platter or serve alongside a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or serve with a dollop of whipped cream. This dish pairs beautifully with other holiday favorites like Sweet Onion Confetti.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until just softened. Avoid overheating as this can alter the texture of the gelatin. It’s best served cold, so consider chilling before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Wine Mold contains roughly 402 calories, with 5g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of gelatin, such as raspberry or grape, to give the mold a unique twist. Just make sure the gelatin complements the flavors of the wine and fruit. Keep in mind that the final taste will vary based on your choice.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of this Cranberry-Wine Mold, substitute the gelatin with agar-agar, a plant-based thickening agent. Follow the package instructions for the correct ratio, and use a vegan wine to ensure the entire dish is free from animal products.
Can I prepare this mold in advance?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for preparing a day ahead of your gathering. Just make sure to store it well covered in the refrigerator. Allow it to set fully overnight for the best texture and flavor before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).